Personal Safety

Keep yourself safe when out and about!

When you go out whether evening or day time always let someone know where you are going. If there’s no one home to tell then leave a note, telephone or text someone. It is also a good idea to let someone know what time you are expecting to be back. Follow these few simple rules to be safe

If possible go out with someone or arrange to meet in a well lit or public place

Make sure you know where you are going and how to get there if its somewhere unfamiliar

Keep to main paths and well lit areas, if there are no paths and you have to walk on a road always face the oncoming traffic

Never accept a lift from someone you don’t know

Never accept a lift from someone who you suspect has been drinking or taking drugs even if you know them well

Try to keep to safe routes near houses, shops, schools etc rather than areas such as industrial estates, building sites or abandoned areas.

If you feel uncomfortable when someone is walking behind you turn quickly and walk the other way and go to a public place – don’t be afraid to ask for help.

If someone tries to take your bag throw it at them and run away for help – don’t fight them to keep possession as you may get injured – you can always replace a bag !

If you are attacked or feel threatened shout FIRE very loudly – it will be more likely to get a response than HELP

Don’t ever be tempted to carry a weapon to defend yourself it will increase the chance of you getting hurt – if you need to carry anything carry a personal attack alarm

Safety on public transport

When taking buses or trains:

Choose a seat near the driver or in an occupied carriage or part of the bus

If someone sits next to you and you feel uncomfortable move to a seat nearer the driver

Have your fare or ticket ready so you don’t have to open wallet or purse in a crowd – someone might be trying to see how much money you have and where you keep your purse or wallet.

Keep bags close to you

Keep your mobile phone in your pocket out of sight

Don’t let anyone know where you are getting off if you are on your own

When taking taxis:

If you are at a friends house ask their parents if they can call a taxi firm they trust

Only use taxis that are licensed (the licence is displayed) and don’t be tempted to get into an unmarked car even if the driver tells you it is a taxi

Always get into the back of the taxi

You can chat with the driver but avoid giving out any personal information

Text or phone someone to say you are getting in a taxi and are on your way home then text to say you have arrived safely